Lowered immune system, more vulnerable in the winter months to catch infections or virus.

Loss of libido reduces sex drive or physical contact

When to seek help

For some people these symptoms can become very severe and have a significant impact on their daily activities, 21% of the UK population are affected to a lesser degree, this is called sub-syndrome, sad or winter blues. 8% or more have a more serious illness this is seasonal addictive disorder.

The National Institute for Health Care and Excellence (NICE) recommend that SAD should be treated in the same way as other types of depression.

Your doctor can carry out an assessment to check your mood, lifestyle, eating habits and sleeping patterns, plus look at any seasonal changes in your mood.

What Cause SAD?

There are several theories but the main theory, is lack of sunlight.

Production of melatium, this is the hormone that makes you feel sleepy with SAD it may produce higher levels.

Production of serotonin

This is the hormone that affects the mood appetite and sleep patterns. It is thought that with SAD or depression that people have lower levels of serototorin. Which is linked to feelings of depression.

Body’s internal clock (Circadian rhythm)

Your body uses sunlight, to time various important functions such as when you wake up so lower light levels during the winter may disrupt your body clock and lead to symptoms of sad.

Genes: Some people may be more vulnerable as a result of genes as in some situations it may run in families.

Treatments

Talking therapies e.g: Cognitive behavior therapy or counselling.

Antidepressants medication, these may include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, SSRI’s are the preferred choice as they increase the serotonin in the brain.

BE AWARE It can take up to six weeks for a medication to work and some come with side effects. You should continue to take the medication until you see your GP. Never abruptly stop medication it should always be gradually stopped.

Claudette is a passionate campaigner and activist for mental health stigma and domestic abuse. She believes that everyone should be treated equally regardless of their disability or gender. She has diagnoses of Bipolar Disorder, endometriosis, Chronic Fatigue and Fibromyalgia. Claudette has a certificate in Management studies. Her interests include beauty, makeup, animals politics, current affairs and social networking.